In the heart of Suphan Buri Province, amid emerald rice paddies and tranquil waterways, a striking emblem of resilience and tradition stands once more—the towering bamboo fish trap. After an unexpected collapse in 2021, this iconic structure has been meticulously resurrected, reaffirming its place as a beloved landmark and an irresistible draw for visitors.
Now restored to its original location, the towering bamboo marvel welcomes travellers eager to admire its intricate craftsmanship, ascend its sturdy levels, and take in sweeping views of the pastoral landscape. Nearby, the bustling Saphan Khong Floating Market adds to the experience, offering tantalising local delicacies, artisan crafts, and a glimpse into Suphan Buri’s enduring cultural heritage.
Perched beside the serene Song Phi Nong Canal, opposite the revered Wat Thong Pradit Buddhist temple, the Giant Fish Trap Tower is a captivating focal point of the local scenery. Originally built in 2018 by local artisans using traditional bamboo poles, the structure was inspired by the region’s age-old fishing techniques. This conical wonder quickly became a beacon for tourism, attracting city dwellers and weekenders seeking an immersive rural escape. But in 2021, a fierce thunderstorm reduced it to a tangled mass of bamboo debris.
The newly rebuilt fish trap, however, is more than a simple reconstruction. Now standing on a robust I-beam frame, the structure retains its bamboo pole façade, ensuring both authenticity and durability. Rising four levels, it pays homage to Thailand’s agrarian traditions while offering a contemporary vantage point from which to admire the countryside.
For those willing to climb, the upper deck provides an unrivalled perspective—verdant fields stretch to the horizon, the canal glistens in the sunlight, and the floating market below hums with life. Amateur photographers and professionals alike are drawn to this open-air perch, capturing postcard-worthy shots of the picturesque surroundings.
For travellers preferring a less vertigo-inducing adventure, a smaller bamboo structure offers a gentler way to experience Suphan Buri’s scenic beauty. With sweeping views but at a more modest height, it’s perfect for those who seek the charm of the countryside without the dizzying ascent.
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A stroll through the floating market is a sensory delight—rows of quaint stalls shaded by thatched roofs offer everything from fragrant street food to handwoven crafts. Diners can savour local specialties at waterside tables, watch lotus blooms drift by, or feed the plump fish that thrive in the canal.
Beyond the market, the surrounding landscape reveals a serene tableau of traditional Thai homes and rice paddies that shift with the seasons. The Song Phi Nong Canal winds lazily through this bucolic scene, its waters reflecting the sky as wooden rowboats glide past. For an even deeper connection to the region, visitors can embark on a traditional rowboat journey, drifting along the waterway while taking in the timeless rhythms of rural life. Future plans for additional bridges promise even grander panoramas of this lush countryside.
In this quiet yet vibrant corner of Suphan Buri, a visit to the Giant Fish Trap Tower and its surroundings offers an enchanting blend of heritage, nature, and warm Thai hospitality—a quintessential rural escape not to be missed.
Planning Your Trip
The Giant Fish Trap is located about two hours northwest of Bangkok. From the capital, follow the Western Ring Road to Highway 340, then turn left onto Route 3422. A short drive from the Song Phi Nong Canal brings you to the site. The bamboo tower is open daily, while the floating market operates on weekends and holidays. Extend your journey by exploring the Thai Farmer’s Way of Life and Spirit Learning Centre (Na Hia Chai) or the historic Sam Chuk old marketplace—both worthwhile stops on a day trip to this rural gem.
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